What's In A Name

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXXIst, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I think Former Edmonton City Councillor Terry Cavanaugh should have one of the new schools named after him. He was after all a Ward VI Council Representative for many years, with only Former Councillor Ron Hayter having more total days in office. Terry is a country gentleman, now in his 80's who served this city well. He stepped up to the plate when Mayor William Hawrelak died as an emergency fill in Mayor who was big on issues such as school safety & School Board/Council Cooperative efforts. When Mayor Laurence Decore stepped aside to take the helm of the Alberta Liberals, good ol' Terry came through again in a crisis to once again take on the mantle of City Leadership.

I Therefore Nominate Terry Cavanaugh IV One Of The New School Names,

Rory

Source: Myself.

Ringette Around The Rosie

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXXth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Extreme appreciation must be lauded on these ringette teams who held a tournament II raise funds IV the Cross Cancer Institute at West Edmonton Mall. In addition II being great students, these young ringette ladies are fighting the good fight against a horrible scourge. They raised just under $88,000.00 this year.

A Remarkable Feat To Be Sure,

Rory

Source: Www.RingetteScoresOnCancer.Ca & The Edmonton Examiner, Angelique Rodrigues.

Le Hable Espagnol Senor

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXIXth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Hey Dave. Here's something that looks like fun. I have a friend who lives downtown who is taking Spanish lessons. With my inability to comprehend other dialects, this is clearly not a course package IV me. But I suggest others try it. Call up The Braemar School at 9359-67A Street & dial 914-6574.

There are music lessons in Spanish to complement the diction classes. Teachers are professionally qualified & speak great Spanish. Class sizes are limited to II XX (20) persons maximum, so each student gets individualized training time. Plus IV levels are taught: basic, basic/intermediate, intermediate; as well as conversational.

Vaya Con Dios,

Rory

Source: Www.GabrielAMistralSchool.Ca.

Quite "Frank"ly

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXVIIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Take a bit of time David, encourage kids to write to Lori Frank at the Edmonton Journal. She is trying to get kids excited about writing about education. Excited enough to not just write about it, but II live the experience of it as I have with this blog. As well as my quest for a IInd High School Diploma & 200 Credits & my run IV Public School Trustee. Lori is IV helping kids Ist, as am I.

Way II Go Lori,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Lori Frank.

All You Love Is Need

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

We must tell Alberta students about Oakville Ontario's own Mary-Lu Zaholan-Kennedy. She is the first person on Planet Earth to get a Master's of Arts Degree on "The Beatles" & their influence on popular culture & music. Sir Paul, Ringo, as well as John & George (from heaven above) will now be singing her praises! I know I will! What an amazing group they were & now this fine young lady can tell all of her friends & family about them. Then kids who might want to use the positive influence of The Beatles music can do so II further their own careers in artistry!

And The "Beat" Goes On,

Rory

Source: Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's (CBC) News: "The National With Peter Mansbridge" & The Toronto Star, Jim Wilkes.

The Lisa Mona

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

Woodcroft (Westmount) Public Library Terminal #XXI
Edmonton, Alberta

January XXVIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

As I was walking through here & admiring the artworks in this EPL Woodcroft (Westmount) Branch, I couldn't help but notice how great they were. Art adds so much to a library, or any place that I was impressed at how the Alberta Foundation IV The Arts, your government's department under Culture & Community Spirit Minister Lindsey Blackett was responsible in getting the art put up on the walls. Library staff tell me how important this foundation is and how they really appreciate Minister Blackett in all of his efforts.

Furthermore, they have told me that without this board of directors, led by the astute Chairman, Mark Phipps, art would not be as appreciated as it is. So I say to Lindsey, yourself & the Arts Foundation Directors, keep up the good work & let art continue to be nurtured, fostered, & appreciated for Albertans now. Not to mention the future generations of artisans that will say take up a brush, pen, or marker. Or perhaps be a sculptor or some other form of artiste. They make Alberta richer!

Art Is Esoteric,

Rory

Source: Www.Affta.Ab.Ca & Www.Epl.Ca.

Number XCIX (Ninety-Nine) Turns Half A Century

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXVIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

On this great occasion of Wayne Gretzky's Lth (50th) birthday, please remind Alberta students of just what a great sportsman he was & is. Not only is Wayne a great athlete who set many records, he is a superb ambassador IV the game of hockey & the up & coming generations. Plus he is a loving husband, father & excellent at lending his name & power to many charitable organizations & endeavours. Edmonton & Alberta were lucky to have him as a promoter who brought us respect & IV Stanley Cups. I for one wish him, Janet & all of the Gretzky family much health & happiness as "The Great One" enters Year LI (51) of his life. May he continue to contribute as he always has.

Move Not To Where The Puck Is But Where Its Going II Be,

Rory

Source: Myself.

The Ukranian Wonderchild

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXVth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Alberta students should definitely learn from Premier Ed Stelmach today. He reflected & decided to retire to politics. He will just stay on a few more months I guess, with you possibly being one of the PC candidates to replace him. Congrats II the Premier on his XXV years of public service. Let Alberta students know how much he loved his Province. Also tell them to send the Premier letters & emails congratulating the Premier on his announcement. As well as wishing him & Marie all of the best as they retire to farm at Andrew.

Perogies Forver,

Rory

Source: The Office Of The Premier Of Alberta, Edward Michael Stelmach, MLA. Progressive Conservative, Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville.

Making A Mountain Out Of A Mole"Hill"View

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXIVth, MMIX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I congratulate the students of Hillview Elementary School IV visiting The Mustard Seed Church, & civic governing offices. This will teach them II be humane II their fellow human beings, as well as respect IV agency officials whose job it is II help the poor. Not to mention the high stress levels the Mayor, City Council & City staffers face every minute of every day. Teacher Herman Chang & school staffers from Hillview (& other schools) that take the initiative II get students II learn about government & respect IV the downtrodden deserve great credit in showing students just how hard life can be without a proper education, as well as proper governance. Hopefully some of these students are the City officials and social workers of the future.

Beans Of Hill,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Examiner, Angelique Rodrigues.

The Black Swan

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXIIIrd, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Attend one & all students the Edmonton School Of Ballet: "Where Passion Becomes An Art." Students should definitely attend this school at the Vimy Ridge Academy. Located on the IIIrd Floor of 8205-90th Avenue, this school hs a reputation IV teaching ballet & other forms of dance like jazz, tap, & Flamenco. Without passion IV dance & the arts David, we as Albertans lose a little of ourselves. Plus we make the students stronger by giving them a healthy dose of exercise! As former Public School Trustee Sue Huff has alluded to, dancing and artistry in motion is very important IV the well being of children.

Artisan Respect,

Rory

Source: Www.Esbdance.Com.

The Dutch Touch

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXIInd, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I must give kudos II the students in The Hague, Netherlands who are protesting cutbacks. The Dutch Education Minister, Halbe Zijlstra is caught in a bind and needs to cut 18 billion Euros (24.25 billion Canadian Dollars) from the budget. Sure the MMMMMMMMMMM (11,000) plus students are protesting & being quite vociferous in their attacks on the government. But at least so far, they haven't been violent & neither have the Police. Leave it to the Dutch education system to instill acts of non-violence & aggression in their students. Thankfully at the time of this writing no one on either side (or civilians caught in the middle) have been hurt or killed in this throng of protestors. Time to break out the Heineken's & Douwe & Egberts Coffee, sit down, relax, & see about coming up with a middle ground solution that will help both sides.

Finger In The Dike,

Rory

Source: The Associated Press, Mike Corder & The Leeuwarder Courant, Leeuwarden, Friesland, The Netherlands.

From Russia With Love

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2


January XXIInd, MMXI


Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Three hurrahs IV technology I say David! In Moscow School #166, we have a little boy with leukemia who is XII (12) years old named Stepan. As he is II weak II attend school in person, a robot (also name Stepan) was created to be his eyes & ears in the classroom. The little boy can move the robot around by remote control through his computer. He can use it to ask questions & read out & record what assignments he needs II do. One day Stepan the boy hopes to be like all kids of his age, strong enough II go II a regular school. I certainly wish him success in that endeavour. Also bravo II scientists & roboticians IV recognizing there should be no barriers II education, including being II ill II leave your home. All kids should have the right to a quality education.

Das VanDana,

Rory

Source: Agence France-Presse, Elise Menand, Moscow, Russia, Europe.

XLIV (44) Capital Boulevard With Extreme Appreciation

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XXIst, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

It is with extreme gratitude that I wish II say thanks II the Management & Staff at XLIV (44) Capital Boulevard. The last II Fridays I have written the French Language Arts 30-1 as an Exam Challenge. The Exam Administrator was thorough in his explanations & gave me great clarifications about the subtext of both the written & multiple-choice questions.

He had been made aware of my auditory disability in learning languages previously & confirmed II me through channels that there was no reason why I had to write Partie "A" in Francais. So, as there was no requirement to write in that language, I Exam Challenged the course & wrote Partie "A" completely in English. Being sure to use my very basic Francais skills II understand & analyze the questions beIV answering. I was able to properly analyze & discuss French culture, both from France, & from a Franco-Canadian perspective. Having Franco-Albertan relatives (le Cannard famillie) who farm near Vimy & Westlock, I can truly appreciate just how great the French people are.

I talked about French culture, such as the great French Resistance Fighters of WWII & bilingualism rights here in Canada. Whats really amazing is the Exam Administrator did not make fun of me IV my disability & neither did any of the Alberta Education Teaching or Transcripts & Records Staff. They are great because they appreciate my appreciation of learning & what a spectacular job that they are doing!

Vive Le Education D'Alberta & Merci,

Rory

Source: Myself.

A True "Guid"ing Force

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

Woodcroft (Westmount) Public Library Terminal #II
Edmonton, Alberta

January XXIst, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I must say that I am most impressed with the members of the Ist Lancaster Park Girl Guides. Their initiative in creating anti-bullying posters shows, drive, creativity, & maturity. Girl Guide Leader IV the Lancaster Park Troop, Mrs. Katherine Aldo swung into action. Her idea of fighting the bullies by speaking up in a poster format was excellent. This allowed the Guides in her Troop to commisserate & honour their friend, a IX (9) year old girl who had committed suicide.

Taking up the United States initiative of "Operation Safety Zone", with a Canadian Detachment of Girl Guides was fabulous. The posters help the girls show how wrong bullying is & how they can help other students: both boys & girls (Girl Guides & not) learn that they should never start to bully. Also, what needs II be done II get out of a tough bullying situation.

Special kudos belong to Girl Guides: Viktoria Bradley, Tyra Clark, Ryleigh Louis, Ivy Best & all of their compatriots. As well as Ivy's mom, Guide Leader Pamela Best. These girls are a proud example of showing humanity & respect in action.

Poster "Guides",

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Sun & QMI Agency, Jasmine Franklin.

Being A Student Of History

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#23, 9731-174 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5T 6G4

January XXth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Students should definitely be made aware of the significance of this day. On this day, 104 (CIV) weeks or II (2) years ago, Barack Hussein Obama (Democrat-Illinois) was sworn in as the XLIVth (44th) President Of The United States & first African-American to that post. A remarkable achievement to be sure. Students should also be made aware of the fact that he cannot be President anymore after another VI (6) years. Its called command & control. Thus ensuring refreshed leadership & new ideas by ensuring no President can serve longer than VIII (8) years, or II four year terms of office. So currently the President has DCCXXXI (731) days left in this term of office when you account IV the leap day of February XXIXth, MMXII.

It should also be noted David that if President Obama were II resign today, the XLVIIth (47th) Vice-President Joseph Robinette Biden (Democrat-Delaware) would be sworn in as the XLVth (45th) President & could serve the remaining II years of his predeccessor's term, as well as running for II four year terms himself. So constitutionally David, students should be made aware that a United States President can actually serve for a period of X (10) years. Furthermore, a replacement Vice-President must be named within VI (6) months by President Biden, or CLXXXVI (186) days to ensure proper control & helming of the government in case of an attack on the new President & that the new Vice-President were II have II take over. Otherwise, the Speaker Of The United States House Of Representatives would have to resign his/her post as head of the Legislative Branch to take over as head of the Executive Branch (Presidency.) That person would then have to (with the majority approval of The United States Senate) appoint a Vice-President him/herself.

Structures Of Governance,

Rory

Source: Www.Whitehouse.Gov.

A Christian Perspective On Science

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XIXth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

While I have a lot of problems with the Premier, I truly must congratulate the Premier for his foresight in visiting the King's University College & their new science wing today. It allows the Premier to see science from a christian perspective & just what a great school King's is. Having supplied furniture for their dormitories there & having had a relative who attended there & raves about the school, I am very proud to see that our Premier has respect enough IV the school to promote it by having a tour & saying some remarks.

Thank You Edward Michael Stelmach,

Rory

Source: Www.KingsU.Ca & @PremierStelmach on Twitter & The Office Of The Premier Of Alberta, The Hon. Ed Stelmach, MLA. Progressive Conservative, Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville.

This Is The City, Los Angeles, California, My Name's Friday, I'm A Cop

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
Jasper Place Public Library Terminal #II
Edmonton, Alberta

January XVIIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Only in Los Angeles, California & other major American cities could such gunplay be acceptable. A student bringing a loaded firearm II school & folks are surprised when the gun goes off upon the student's backpack being dropped. I just do not get it, after the sovereign State of Arizona was terrorized by a gunman & an innocent IX year old girl was among the dead, we now have more innocent students being hurt. Whether here in Alberta, in the States or anywhere, guns need to be more controlled. Killing is beyond stupid.

Please David instill in Alberta parents & students through dialogue & discourse that guns are IV stopping bad folks and should only be handled by trained authority's such as police service & armed forces personnel.

I Am Glad That More Of The Gardena High School Students Were Not Hurt,

Rory

Source: JRW Logistics Ltd., Mr. John R. Winslow aka as @SirThinks on Twitter, & The Christian Science Monitor, Daniel B. Wood.

Magnifier, P.I.

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
Jasper Place Public Library Terminal #XIII
Edmonton, Alberta

January XVIIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Here in the Jasper Place Branch, I am sitting next to a senior citizen with optic problems who is using a magnifying glass as an aide while he does his internet research. These junior high students were mocking him IV bringing in his own magnifying glass & said he should be using the magnifier instead because he was "so old." First & foremost that is clearly ageist discrimination against the elderly. Also, the magnifier is IV researching historical documents, not IV internet usage. So the gentleman told me as he can't afford II buy a computer on his pension income, he needs II come II the library to surf the web & check his emails. He needs his magnifying glass because he is over LXXX (80) years old & therefore has some natural vision impairments. Plus his regular lenses can't pick up text.

Personally, I say bravissimo II this gentleman IV still wanting to learn & be engaged in computer usage at such an advanced age. These students were told by me & the library staff to stop harassing him. He has decided II continue his life journey of learning. Just because these young students are younger & just starting their educational chosen paths doesn't give them the right to trample over an older person who is trying his best to remain an active member of society.

Graciously,

Rory

Source: Myself & Www.Epl.Ca.

Andrew Hanon Has It Right On

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Jasper Place Public Library Terminal #I, Edmonton, Alberta

January XVIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Edmonton Sun Columnist Andrew Hanon has it right on IIday. There is absolutely no place in today's society IV bullying. Either cyberbullying &/or face II face bullying. Its just absolutely intolerable no matter what. Here we have a XIX year old charged with murdering poor XVII year old Niko Arlia, a former St. Joseph's Catholic High School student. The event happened during a brawl at a community hall party, plus his body was dumped a block away like common trash like he meant nothing. I mean talk about inhumane. I strongly agree with Mr. Hanon's point that parents must teach their kids about being responsible with technology & to use it IV good & not evil. Furthermore, they must learn to respect not only their own life, but all human life & learn that bullying & killing will get you nowhere. That killing will in fact lead II heavy consequences. Kudos should be given to Lori Nagy of Edmonton Catholic Schools & St. Joseph's School staff IV suspending kids who made revenge death threats. Violence can just sow more counter violence & thats not right!

Computer Disgracefulness,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Sun, Andrew Hanon.

Cantonese Vs Mandarin

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XVIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Students have II learn here in Alberta about how important multiple languages are. This is why I wrote Part A of the French Language Arts 30-1 Exam last Friday AM. In Alberta & in all provinces, French & English should be mandated in Provincial Language Legislation, just as they are in the great Province of New Brunswick.

It seems in China, Communist Party lackies are trying to kill the Cantonese language, as well as other dialects so that citizens will all speak Mandarin only. I mean thats outrageous David, the more multilingual students are, the better they will be able II further themselves in their chosen lifestyles & careers.

Push Back,

Rory

Source: Reuters, James Fomret & Farah Master, Guangzhou & Shanghai, China & "The Languages Of China" by S. Robert Ramsey.

NorQuest College On Top Of Its Game

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XVth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

NorQuest College (nee Alberta Vocational College) should be congratulated IV its initiative in developing new courses/programs towards erasing budgetary shortages. As an alumni of this great school under its old masthead, I am proud at the astute decisions being made by the administrators. With President Jodi Abbott leading the charge, I feel NorQuest will just keep on getting stronger!

Equal Learning Ability,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Elise Stolte.

Simply Good Business

Rory J. Koopmans, B.Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XVth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Way II go Mr. Alfred Sorenson! A University Of Alberta School Of Business Commerce Grad donating $5 million to his old school. Thats just utterly fantastic! The $2 million Fund & the $3 million Chairmanship set up in his name gives the School Of Business a real financial shot in the arm. As well as a great confidence boost during these stressful economic times.

What Great Publicity,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Nathan Liewicki.

Prayer Advisory Mrs. Carr

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
NorQuest College Courtesy Computer #XXXIX
Edmonton, Alberta

January XIVth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Joan Carr, the Catholic Schools Superintentendent IV Edmonton has it right in today's Edmonton Journal. The survey (as I have stated beIV during the Trustee Election) IV capacity levels of kids both in & out of their neighbourhoods should have included results from Catholic schools. Figures which would be available at Www.Ecsd.Net or by calling Catholic School Board offices. Without these numbers, Sarah O'Donnell & her stats advisor Mack Male are not giving Edmontonians a true educational perspective as to actual student numbers & enrollments. Thus planning for future neighbourhood promotion with Catholic & Public parents &/or guardians becomes an impossible task to accomplish (at basically any juncture.)

Amen To Catholic Learning,

Rory

Source: Edmonton Catholic School Board Superintendent Joan Carr.

Quotemeisters

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XIIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Famous & Superb Educational Quotes:

"There is a heightened interest in living local."

-Ward C Edmonton Public School Trustee Christopher Spence.

"We can't underestimate the role parents play in talking up their local school, whether its on the playground or the soccer pitches." "Those are all very powerful messages in the community."

-Superintendent Edmonton Public Schools Edgar Schmidt.

"We're trying to swing the pendulum back the other way & promote the local school & strengthen neighbourhood connections so people can feel good about where they live."

-Executive Director Edmonton Federation Of Community Leagues Allan Bolstad.

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Sarah O'Donnell.

Celebrity High School Dropouts

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January XIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Sure there are high school dropout success stories like Double Academy Award (TM) Winner Robert Deniro, actress Uma Thurman, & rapper "50 Cent" aka Curtis Jackson. But I cannot help but stress again how important it is II stay in school. Its extra important especially in these uncertain economic times. Other notables include singer Billy Joel & hair care expert Vidal Sassoon.

High Appreciation IV Learning,

Rory

Source: Www.Forbes.Com, Jane Lee & Helen A. Coster.

The Northlands Coliseum In Edmonton Reportage

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
Woodcroft (Westmount) Public Library Terminal #XVI
Edmonton, Alberta

January XIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I truly wanted to say excellent work in the Northland School District matter. Your initiative in firing the lot of the Trustees & bringing in a hardass Special Trustee to consult & ram through changes has certainly improved the situation in the last few months. I particularly like your idea of appointing some of the Northland Trustees in the future as an oversight to the elected Trustees so that they do not get out of line. I also approve strongly of the recommendation that more distance learning & online options be provided II aboriginal (& all)students in the District so that unneeded trucking/transport costs can be cut. This will certainly expedite improvements in the system as the gasoline fees then can freed up IV in classroom use. Which of course can only be better IV the kids.

Might I suggest to you that administrators made to be given bi-annual reports to you & your successors in the Office Of The Minister to ensure transparency. The sooner we can up attendance & completion rates., the better it will be IV the kids. Plus the project can get finished before your allotted endtime of December XXXIst, MMXX (31st, 2020.)

A Great Leap Forward David,

Rory

Source: Www.Education.Alberta.Ca/Department/About/Minister.Aspx.

The Finest Ever Assembled & Feeling Green

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2


January XIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I cannot help but feel sad IV the family of IX year old shooting victim, Miss Christina Green. Her birthday of IX/XI/MMI embodies so much symbolism, especially when you consider this little sweetheart was also cut down beIV her time. A bright young lady who as a student participated in elementary student government & sang in her church choir. This is not the type of lady that deserved II die. She was full of hope, promise, & positivity. When I see the mugshot of the shooter I realize that he instead of this girl (& the other deceased) should be the one II have died.

Its great her mother Roxanna hopes that her death will maybe lead to a lessening or cessation of violence, racism, bigotry, & other political discourse. A foundation against violence should be set up in Christina's good name & your Department Of Alberta Education should be the first to cut it a nice donation.

End Violence Now David,

Rory

Source: The New York Times, Joseph Berger.

Stay In School And Stay Safe

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January Xth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Looking at these stats from the C.D. Howe Institute, must say congrats II the students of British Columbia at 6.2% IV having the lowest high school dropout rate. Sad that Alberta is in IInd last place at 10.4%, but glad the figures are out there: openly & honestly. We need II get more parent/student/celebrity role models inII Alberta schools to talk II the kids frankly about how important education is. Eg: Like Edmonton Eskimos for instance.

Not Dropping The Ball,

Rory

Source: Postmedia News, Vancouver, British Columbia.

Reccos Violence Unacceptable

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January IXth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

We have to get referees, parents, coaches & the students/players themselves II stop the violence. Soccer & all sports should be both fair & fun. There is no room IV roughousing in games. The more violence free sports are, the better the overall excitement level & the better the kids will play. The more exciting the game, the higher the attendance figures. Then word will spread like wildfire about what a great time the kids are having. Not just athletically, but making many new social friends, both on their own team & from the opposition.

A Yellow Card,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Andrea Sands.

U Of A GPA Collusion

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

 

January VIIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

University Of Alberta Math Professor Mikhail Kovalyov has it right on. The backstabbers in U Of A Math Administration had no right to overturn his grades & grade point averages if the students that were marked earned better grades. It shows that the nuts are running the asylum to a degree in the U Of A Math Department. Then to threaten job action against a fulltime tenured Prof. when its they who remarked legitimately graded papers: quite frankly its atrocious. Seems like David McNeilly in Faculty Service is full of crap. He just wants Prof. Kovalyov II fail more students so they'll be out of pocket 1000's more in cash in having II retake the courses. What kind of school is the U of A running? First they take away phone lines of Professors so its even harder to communicate with them. Next they attack the basic human rights of sound educators? Maybe Mr. McNeilly & his compadres should be the ones fired!

Shocked,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Mariam Ibrahim.

Go Tell It On The "Mount"ain

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January VIIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

A couple of my relatives went through Mount Royal University when it was still Mount Royal College in Calgary. They swear by its great programs, staff & friendly learning environment. So here is a shout out from the "Mountain Top" to what seems like a great place II be.

Sheperding,

Rory

Source: Www.MtRoyal.Ca.

Marvel(lous) Hair

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2 

January VIth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

My friend Gary attended Marvel College & to this day does a bit of hairdressing on the side. He swears by its quality & friendly delivery format. There was no discrimination against him for being male. This is quite amazing as the majority of its students are female. Classmates worked with eachother in teams to make sure they & their College clients always looked their best. Sounds like fun learning II me!

Hair IIDay & Gone Tomorrow,

Rory

Source: Www.McCollege.Ca.

Exam Season Wintro

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January Vth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Great exam tips include:

I. BeIV leaving your home, make sure you bring along things you'll need like a study guide & calculator.

II. Get II the exam room early, which of course eliminates any worry on your part that you might be late in writing it.

III. As soon as you are allowed II write, jot down any formulas or equations you have in you memory that you think might be useful to you on your scrap paper.

IV. Monitor your writing time.

V. Read questions over several times that you feel you are unsure of just II get clarification.

Internal Stress Avoidance,

Rory

Source: Mark McGregor, QMI Agency.

Male Gender Respect

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January IVth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Consevative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

So St. Matthew & St. James Schools in Edmonton Catholic are launching a couple of boys exclusive schools. I applaud them IV trying this initiative. Male bonding & teacher role models are very important IV boys to respect & admire; just as females of strength are important figures in girls exclusive schools.

The Edmonton Catholic system should remember however that it important IV girls to have male role models & vice versa IV boys with female role models. Co-ed social functions should be held during each year II give each side the perspective (& understanding) of the opposite sex/gender.

Happy Ukranian Christmas,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Sarah O'Donnell.

A Great School That Lethbridge College

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January IIIrd, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

A fascinating science experiment at Lethbridge College David. Seems professors there are having students test cougar DNA to determine the various classes & family groups of these extraordinary creatures. By testing the DNA of already dead cougars, students at Lethbridge College & scientists in general can use these testing results in the future to help make sure future populations of these animals are healthy and able to fight any future possible and actual disease outbreaks. Education in action.

Cougar Town,

Rory

Source: Www.LethbridgeCollege.Ca.

Year II, Episode DLXXIII (573)

Rory J. Koopmans, B Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January IInd, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

As I enter Year II of this blog, I can sense that education is ever more important as time marches on. Without education & constant refinements to curriculum, Alberta students will be left behind. So we must feed the need IV information by encouraging students to look in II technical institutes, community colleges & online schools if they cannot afford to enter a standard university setting such as the University Of Calgary or University Of Alberta. People should consult your Education Department Website, its a very useful tool.

Happy Upcoming Ukranian Christmas,

Rory

Source: Www.Education.Alberta.Ca.

MP's Guard The Colonel

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January Ist, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,

Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I began anew the New Year of MMXI with a visit to Government House (my XXIIIrd) & the Annual Lt. Governor's New Years Day Levee. It was pleasant as I got to meet Lt. Col. Don Ethel & his wife & share in his Ist Levee. My friend Suzanne was also there & she works out of her home as a dance instructor told me about Dance Moves. A really high quality dance studio that caters II all age groups. She stressed II me I should mention it as a great meeting place IV students & their family's. Also that it was a great place II get lots of exercise IV these same students. A healthy mind leading II a healthy body.

Plus Its A Superb Cardiovascular Workout,

Rory

Source: Www.DanceMoves.Ca.

P.S.: I also got to meet the new Acting Police Chief, seems like a stand up kind of guy.